Bucket-List Scenic Railways in Europe 2026: Flåm, Rauma & Semmering

Some railway journeys are destinations in themselves. In 2026, three scenic lines belong on every rail traveller's bucket list: Norway's Flåm Railway (Myrdal–Flåm via vy.no), the Rauma Line (Dombås–Åndalsnes) and Austria's UNESCO Semmering Railway (Vienna–Graz). Here is how to book each, when to go, and how to stitch them into a longer scenic loop.

The three lines at a glance

Flåm Railway (Myrdal–Flåm)

The Flåm Railway drops 867 metres from Myrdal on the Bergen Line to the Aurlandsfjord in 20 km — one of the steepest adhesion railways in the world. Book at vy.no. Most travellers arrive via the Oslo–Bergen line and switch at Myrdal.

Rauma Line (Dombås–Åndalsnes)

The Raumabanen is a regular Vy service through Trollveggen — Europe's tallest vertical rock face — and the Romsdal valley. No branded tourist train required; sit on the left travelling toward Åndalsnes for the best views. Connect from Oslo on the Dovre Line to Dombås.

Semmering Railway (Vienna–Graz)

The UNESCO-listed Semmeringbahn (1848–1854) between Gloggnitz and Mürzzuschlag features 16 viaducts and 15 tunnels. ÖBB REX and regional trains run Vienna–Graz via the Semmering pass — book at oebb.at. Pair with a day trip from Vienna or continue toward Slovenia and the Adriatic.

Best seasons (2026)

Combine Norway's Flåm and Rauma lines via Oslo, then link to Central Europe for Semmering. See our Glacier & Bernina Express guide for Switzerland and Europe rail loops for multi-country scenic itineraries.